I literally started crying laughing when James came around the corner sideways in the RS3 like "AND I'M JAMES!!!" And then immediately spun out. I love this channel.
Assuming the two shots at 9:44 and 9:55, you can see the differential at work. In the first shot, the inner rear-wheel is spinning much slower than the outside rear-wheel in the second shot. Love the cinematography in this video. The drifts are beautifully captured.
Dude! It’s fking ridiculous lol All the journalist can do is highlight. It’s “good points” It’s almost like auto manufacturers, are making all their sports cars heavy to try to get us used to or ready for how heavy the full electric cars will be🤔 😟
And I still don't get how this is fine for everybody! That thing is the smallest whale on the street, but still a whale! And it's not even awd, what have they put in it?
@@sharodbell Nah, the truth is that car design is a lot like politics. Everybody loves more stuff and complains if you get rid of anything. More safety, more quietness, more electronics, more options. The problem with the M cars is that car should be the exception to the rule.
As a fellow new RS3 owner, this is the perfect car for me, the ultimate compact daily. Also, glad that you found one to make this happen, saw the post on the audi forum by you guys :)
Dope bro congrats rs3 are awsome !!! Proud owned of a b7 rs4 here soon will have a rs3 poss or a viper or z06 or r8 v10 ! Have sick apec Acura TL manual so got my front wheel awd rs4 might have to get a rwd beast What would u do bro ?
I traded in a 2020 M2 for a 2023 RS3, and I have to say overall I prefer the RS3. I definitely miss the manual transmission that the M2 had, but the RS3 is the better daily driver. It's slightly faster, the interior is better and the stereo is infinitely better. And despite what you might think, the RS3 handles every bit as good as the M2 with the rear torque splitter. Plus, I had a couple issues with my M2 and I only put like 20k miles on it. Nothing major, but a belt problem that had to be brought in several times, a rear seal gasket and a few other little things. The RS3 is my 5th Audi and I've never had a problem with any of them.
The rs3 handles alot better than bmws. Such a good platform to make handle even better. Whilst the bmw come with already pretty maxed out. Sure you can put coilovers and sway bars but thats basically it. Audi you can make it basically into a road legal lms car. I saw it and fell in love. But the lms is a full blown race car that you can buy from audi. Every modern audi shits on bmws. Even alot older audis had better lap times and had loads of tuning potential to make it handle like a race car. Also great engines. Audi had a huge heavy saloon in the 80s with a big 4.2 v8 that beat a little bmw m3 i think with a 4 cyl engine and the audi won. Crazy. Audi has a truly amazing racing histroy.
@@purwantiallan5089 oh yes - you mean post war cars? yeah...there were some legendary ones, they were like a motorbike with a bit of plastic around them, like the famous BMW Isetta or others in Germany, people did not have the means. But if you look at the luxury cars in the 1930th, they were very heavy too - like Duesenberg (2.5 - 3t), Mercedes SSK, Bentleys, RR´s,
I know it’s really all up to taste, but I personally really don’t like the absolutely massive black front “grill”, it’s too much for my taste. I like the overall design but the front isn’t my favorite. While the M2 isn’t my favorite either, I like the leaner more balanced look of the front.
That new RS3 is bad ass! Previous gen M2 comp has always been one of my dream cars but man I'd have a hard time choosing between that and the new RS3. As a note I don't do track days so just fun daily.
Why, so it can be worse like an RS3? It weighs what it does because it's basically an M4 with different sheet metal. They could make it lighter by basing it off the FWD platform like Audi does but then it would be just another tarted up FWD econobox.
@@chrisbradley9607 BMW already makes a RWD car on the CLAR platform that's lighter and faster around a track than the M2. The Supra. Same day, tire, and professional driver M2 is a little over a second slower: th-cam.com/video/K-7MEiMSxTk/w-d-xo.html RWD is not an excuse, or reason, for a small car to be this heavy.
@@jddonegan check the leaderboard, new m2 is faster than Supra by a second here, and you still have back seats and a reasonable trunk size and good visibility in all directions
@@chrisbradley9607 not sure the RS3 is an econobox, but sure. However, they didn’t make it lighter. All of the latest BMWs are heavy..and pretty ugly in my view. It’s ok. It’s still a cool car. I’d take the previous version though. To me, the previous M2 is the most pure M car to come out in a while minus that M5 CS.
Eh, I've owned a TTRS with that 5 cylinder and although it sounds great and pulls like a freight train it revs out quite slowly (huge, heavy balance shafts will do that) which sucked a lot of the fun out of WOT pulls for me. I just prefer motors that rip to the redline even if they don't sound as good as the 5 cylinder. I do like Audi interiors though!
@@layne4376 look at the cars the RS3 is on the leaderboards with 😂 all 2 door sports cars with 450+hp and the RS3 has the same time. Unmatched performance and quality
Thomas - I really think you didn’t do enough of a deep dive into your own M2! Would LOVE to see a full vid on that, including perspective on it as a daily driver and how easily it really does kick out the back!! 👍
Honestly the Audi RS3 has always seemed like the perfect car. Small enough for the city, decent boot size, physical HVAC buttons, integrated non-tablet screen, usable rear seats, will keep its value because of being a 5cyl. Should just buy one ugh
Both cars are so special and great at what they do and representing their motorsport divisions amazingly well. For my money id also take the Audi, 4 doors, 5 cylinder engine, and awd.
@@avishkarsingh744lol you’re not going to notice that negligible difference in everyday city driving. Don’t be silly. Plus, RS3 looks and sounds SO much better.
Test drove both cars for few hours , picking up G87 M2 next month. I'm absolutely amazed how this new M2 drives and Im saying this after 3 years with old M2.
I’m waiting to test drive aswell how was the feeling of the new Rs3 i own a Type R Fk8 and I love the feel of it I can’t go back to driving just any car I’m curious if the M2 is similar and better what do you think?
looking at this 1 year later @12:21 in the video you see the M2 rear end kick out when breaking at high speeds. there was a man from new york who died recently from this reason with this car. just wanted to put that out there!!!!!! Love the RS3 too!!!!
RS3 is better when it comes to one car garage, it has 4 doors more practical, you can drive it in rain and snow. Can't believe RWD M2 is way heavier than AWD RS3 😂😂
@@francisgomes9976 What do you mean? It's hard to understand you as I don't speak "illiterate chav". What's a "poll"? Why would anyone "run it" into a poll? Do you usually "run" in cars or next to cars or what on earth are you doing??
One of your best videos. This format is why you’ve gained so many subscribers. Two different cars. Two different personalities that complement each other well. 👍🏻. More of this and less of the crossover EV single car videos.
I reckon slower gear changes in the new ZF8's is for emissions. I think they put rev hang in manuals now because closing the valves more slowly is better for NOX testing
For many years, I would have taken the piss out of you for this decision. I still would, but I'm struggling to think of a suggestion for something else you should have bought instead, at least on the new car market.
@@ApothecaryTerry I might take the A45 instead of my RS3 if that car is available in NA market as I do like the look of the A45 better than the RS3. But given it's not, RS3 is the best that edges out the M340i for me.
@@jkliao6486 Fair enough. I daily a Cayman (981S) since it's another league in terms of looks, plus surprisingly practical and cost effective - I get 45-50mpg (UK) on long runs and have carried 300kg+ of gravel (plus my ex-GF, won't mention her weight 😂). If you need back seats though, while I wouldn't buy any of those cars personally, I can't really criticise anyone who picks an A45 or RS3, or M340i for that matter.
My dad had the previous RS3, he never tracked it or did any crazy driving in it but he loved it so much and he got $20k in equity at the end of the lease which was put into a Mk7.5 Golf R, MQB platform is very good, I know for sure if the new RS3 came to Canada he’d of gotten that, it was just such a great daily
Throttle House has so much become my most favorite car channel, that I basically dont watch the others anymore. Please keep your style guys, you are magicians (the whole team) :)
Hey Guys ! Before I watch this I just want to say I love your guys’ content and it helped get me thru the Pandemic. I found a new love for cars and my partner goes insane with how much I talk about cars, we drive a ‘22 Model Y Performance. Keep going you guys !! Great stufffff 🔥🔥
I agree with their conclusions. I’m and M2 fan, but for the new gen, I would pick the RS3. It now has rear end play AND I get to listen to that 5 cylinder sound 🤤 As someone who has passengers regularly, the rear seats are welcome. But would also get a a prev gen M2 (more beautiful than either of these cars). Thank you for making my Friday, Throttle House! Loving the cinematic grading on those hot lap on boards btw 🙌
@@lawetapotrzebnaodzaraz8383 yup love how new rs3 owners are like its wild like a bmw now yet when they get out of my bmw they are like my rs3 wel its wild enough for me 🤣🤣🤣
Really appreciated this review as I was cross shopping these two cars. I found the RS3 to be more fund on public roads (I'll only rarely track my cars) and a lot more unique with the 5 pot engine. It's also much more practical. Thanks for helping to make my decision a little bit easier! I'm loving my new RS3 so far
I've just taken delivery of an RS3 sportback - I can confirm it is an excellent daily. I also have a Porsche 718 GTS and the RS3 is the perfect compliment to it. It is practical, comfortable and entertaining when asked. Shame you guys don't get the hatch, as it also looks amazing. Not a fan of the sedan looks at all.
You guys have such an amazing chemistry together and by far the best videos for car channels. You guys are funny and are honest with the reviews. really reminds me of the old TOP GEAR trios. I am sorry that you guys do not get the RS3's in canada but if you ever come to Texas we can take mine to go eat! Cheers to more amazing videos!
What's the best part of throttle house? The comraderrie between James and Thomas. Everything else is just a prop that highlights what friendship is about.
The Audi front end looks like it’s missing with all that black plastic. And people make fun of the M2 front end? Given the choice, the M2 is an amazing car and for most people, the automatic is so much smoother than the dual clutch auto. BMW claims shifts in S3 mode to be 150 milliseconds, and I’d bet the DCT isn’t much faster or could be even better felt faster. In Oregon’s, before I bought my 2024 M2, Audi had a $35,000 markup on the RS3. It was a no brainer which to buy. Keep up the good work….I love your videos. By the way, did you see the difference those optional Audi tires made on the Car and Driver Lightning Lap? When they changed to those tires from the stock tires, they gained like 4 seconds a lap at VIR. If it wasn’t for those tires, the Audi would be down closer to the Golf R. With the M2, the Audi RS3, or the Golf R….you can’t go wrong. All are wonderful cars. Congrats James on your Golf R purchase.
@@iohanncenturion9343 ZF8 is definitely not faster than a dual clutch transmission. ZF8 shifts are in the 150-300ms range, whereas DCTs are in the 10-50ms range. But most people will not notice the difference, so the ZF8 feels fast enough.
@@hevatibm DCTs don't shift in the 10-50ms range lol, quit believing that garbage VW was spouting a while back. The PDK which is considered one of the fastest DCTs shifts in a hair over 100ms, while the ZF8 shifts in 150ms. The difference is that the ZF8 will hit those shifts more consistently, whereas you have to nail the gear preselection in the PDK. Regardless, they're both fast enough to the point where it's irrelevant.
You guys are the absolute best! I literally look forward to waking up with my coffee and watching your videos. As far as Euro cars go im a BMW guy. But if the RS3 were offered with a manual it would be my favorite modern car available to me at any pricepoint
Very nice review, as allways. My unpopular opinion: I think the M2 looks better due to its proportions (loong hood, two doors, short rear, wide stance) while the RS3 with it's wide track in the front looks like a bodybuilder that skipped leg-day. But I agree with Thomas, that i'd go with a previous gen M (F82 M4 Comp for me) over one of these two.
@@czesaw597 The RS3 does have a big plastic grille, you are correct. I understand your situation though - the M2 is so ugly that you can't open your eyes long enough to look at it, but I am sorry to have to inform you: it's 1000000x uglier than the RS3 😂 Disclaimer: I'm definitely not an Audi fanboy (I have spent so long mocking Audi drivers, they wouldn't let me buy one!). It's just, I like BMW enough that I care if they make good cars, which makes it more annoying that their new cars all look like a chimp had diarrhoea on a Picasso painting and someone accidentally set fire to the result.
Love the sound of that 5 cyl and I heard it’s a pretty stout engine, I had an 04 S4 back in the day and it was maintenance nightmare but I’ve heard good things about the 5 cyl and it’s tunability.
2:09 If the F87 M2 was "ultra ultra playful" I wonder what the E82 1M was? I think only James could comes up with the adverbs and adjectives for that one.
Great review, guys! I think the RS3 is one of the great sleeper cars. No one outside of the enthusiast community would expect it to be so fast. As for the M2 ZF vs. manual, I’d take the manual every time, just for the fun of rowing my own gears. I don’t do track days and I don’t care if it’s just a bit slower; manuals are just more fun to daily drive for me.
Not sure any Audi is a good sleeper now honestly, they have a reputation. My Dad bought an A6 TDI and 3 people assumed it was faster than my hybrid Lexus...even though the Lexus was faster on EV mode than the Audi (or with the 300hp V6 on, the Lexus did 0-100-0-100-0-100-0-100-0mph in the time the Audi does 0-100mph.). Anyway, I'm only disagreeing on whether any Audi is really a sleeper now, plus that Lexus was a mad sleeper so a bad comparison. I do like this RS3 so I assume I agree with you overall about both of these cars, I do like this new RS3. I have a concern about the M2 manual though- Thomas, and others, suggested the manual transmission is a bit crap on this M2. In theory, I like manuals in the right cars (small and not super fast cars) but in this case it seems that BMW didn't get it right. Also, the car is too heavy, so the manual can't be used properly anyway. Seems like an auto is better in the new M2, to me, but honestly I'd pick an older, slower car with a manual...or ideally a Porsche 981 2.7, Honda EP3 or or Peugeot 306 GTI-6 to really enjoy a manual!
@@ApothecaryTerry Great points. I think the RS3 is a sleeper to non-enthusiasts. To non-car people it just looks like another A3. As for the BMW, you’re right - the regular sticks in the manuals was pretty rubbery feeling, but the M manuals feel a little better. Not the best, but I’d still want the manual over the ZF, just because I prefer a manual. The ZF is great, and probably a better choice for most people. But given a choice in a car that offers both, I’d always take the manual.
@ApothecaryTerry non car people have two opinons about BMW 1. That person is rich/lucky or 2. That person is rich/ahole. With Audi non-car people are barely aware it exists, especially in the US
@@catinthehat5140 That doesn't apply in Europe - here non-car people feel exactly the same about Audi as BMW. Don't think I've seen an Audi indicate since I last took one on a test drive...
Can you guys considering doing a behind the scenes video of how you plan and shoot your reviews/come up with the story lines? Can’t believe how much this channel has grown up but it’s been so fun to see.
I've taken a Porsche Cayman, loaded it with 350kg+ of gravel and my ex girlfriend who, for the sake of argument, weighed 350kg 🤣 Total weight was still less than that M2. I might be overstating the weight of the gravel, definitely not the ex. In terms of performance and weight, that M2 is perfect..for an M5. It's just, if it was 500kg lighter then it would be, ya know, good. They'll claim it's safety, but a Pug 308 GTi which was sold until last year (might still be sold, not sure, nobody is buying them if so) weighed 1205kg, so a solid 500kg less than the M2, while being quicker from 30-70 and round a track vs a Golf R- not that it matters, because also 20x more fun, yet still got 5 star NCAP. I'm not saying that 308 is even that good, it ain't (i20N is the way to go, or a 981...or a Lotus), but demonstrates that 1700kg is unnecessary
Usually i would choose the M2 as the car i would want. However the new RS3 is just so good and the new engine, AWD system and look just does exactly what i want. Both are heavy so its just the three things i named that matter most to me.
7/10s of a second. That is not a big gap, and that M2 is incredibly fast! For the Audi, I love the 5 cylinder in that thing and I am still rooting for Audi to put that in the new RS4 with some hybrid wizardry (even though it won't happen) because the engine is just incredible! But I do agree with Thomas. The RS3 is nice, but an f87 M2 is where it is at.
james’s entrance literally had me laughing hysterically that was fantastic as always!
would you repeat that?
@@KevinWebb YES I CAN
AND I'M JAMES!!!! lol
that was awesome. i had to walk away laughing before i continue watching the video
I was literally scrolling through the comments and read this seconds before he spun out lol
I literally started crying laughing when James came around the corner sideways in the RS3 like "AND I'M JAMES!!!" And then immediately spun out. I love this channel.
Audi RS3 the front end looked like 2023 NASCAR Ford Fusion.
I love the fact that Thomas is so honest. He’s a real enthusiast😎
For its size the, the M2 is like a smaller hellcat in its weight class😅
with a shadow of bias for the M2 he owns lol
LMFAO no he isn't.
No this guy is a fake beyond any other youtuber. Imposter
hahaha you got g87 owners so mad at you
Assuming the two shots at 9:44 and 9:55, you can see the differential at work. In the first shot, the inner rear-wheel is spinning much slower than the outside rear-wheel in the second shot.
Love the cinematography in this video. The drifts are beautifully captured.
Thomas is brutally honest and that makes him so damn awesome! It really does!!!!! Thank you, Thomas.
I still can’t get over the fact that the M2 is now heavier than a 4-door sedan. A very small 4-door but still…
That’s what happens when you compare a coupe built on a premium RWD platform with a FWD one that’s also shared by economy cars (Skodas, Seats, etc).
Dude! It’s fking ridiculous lol
All the journalist can do is highlight. It’s “good points”
It’s almost like auto manufacturers, are making all their sports cars heavy to try to get us used to or ready for how heavy the full electric cars will be🤔 😟
a very small 4door? m2 is now heavier than a bmw m5 e39. a very big v8 4door.
And I still don't get how this is fine for everybody! That thing is the smallest whale on the street, but still a whale! And it's not even awd, what have they put in it?
@@sharodbell Nah, the truth is that car design is a lot like politics. Everybody loves more stuff and complains if you get rid of anything.
More safety, more quietness, more electronics, more options. The problem with the M cars is that car should be the exception to the rule.
I love how detailed Thomas is when describing the handling and how it compares to the old model.
It's called 'micro dosing ' 🍄 Haha😉
Thomas had this nailed.
I'm still mad over how much better the old m2 looks over the new one.
Every older BMW is better looking than the new ones
Roadkill looks better than the new M2 does.
Still, could be worse
And it still looks a lot better than that disgusting plastic grill on the Audi.
Completely subjective though. I find the G87 looks much better than the F87 because it's so much more aggressive-looking.
As a fellow new RS3 owner, this is the perfect car for me, the ultimate compact daily. Also, glad that you found one to make this happen, saw the post on the audi forum by you guys :)
I absolutely love my 8Y, even stock its so much fun. I can't wait until we can properly tune them
Open the exhaust up so we can all hear the glory
Dope bro congrats rs3 are awsome !!! Proud owned of a b7 rs4 here soon will have a rs3 poss or a viper or z06 or r8 v10 ! Have sick apec Acura TL manual so got my front wheel awd rs4 might have to get a rwd beast What would u do bro ?
@@lancegallant3647 dude if I was looking for a toy car I would get a C6 Z06
@MeltingRubberZ28 agreed fully bro 505 hp n.a can't beat it awsome bro agreed
I traded in a 2020 M2 for a 2023 RS3, and I have to say overall I prefer the RS3. I definitely miss the manual transmission that the M2 had, but the RS3 is the better daily driver. It's slightly faster, the interior is better and the stereo is infinitely better. And despite what you might think, the RS3 handles every bit as good as the M2 with the rear torque splitter.
Plus, I had a couple issues with my M2 and I only put like 20k miles on it. Nothing major, but a belt problem that had to be brought in several times, a rear seal gasket and a few other little things. The RS3 is my 5th Audi and I've never had a problem with any of them.
The rs3 handles alot better than bmws. Such a good platform to make handle even better. Whilst the bmw come with already pretty maxed out. Sure you can put coilovers and sway bars but thats basically it. Audi you can make it basically into a road legal lms car. I saw it and fell in love. But the lms is a full blown race car that you can buy from audi. Every modern audi shits on bmws. Even alot older audis had better lap times and had loads of tuning potential to make it handle like a race car. Also great engines. Audi had a huge heavy saloon in the 80s with a big 4.2 v8 that beat a little bmw m3 i think with a 4 cyl engine and the audi won. Crazy. Audi has a truly amazing racing histroy.
Loved the road trip series but cant wait to get back to these videos every week love whatever you guys put out!
Well yes - all cars are growing. Todays cars are double then 20 years ago or triple then 40 years ago...
I prefer the reviews to the road trip stuff
@@bavariancarenthusiast2722 or quadrupled when it was 70 years back.
@@purwantiallan5089 oh yes - you mean post war cars? yeah...there were some legendary ones, they were like a motorbike with a bit of plastic around them, like the famous BMW Isetta or others in Germany, people did not have the means.
But if you look at the luxury cars in the 1930th, they were very heavy too - like Duesenberg (2.5 - 3t), Mercedes SSK, Bentleys, RR´s,
I'll choose The Audi all day every day 🔥🔥🔥
That 5 cylinder is spiiiiiiiiicy! Loving the new Audi 🔥
I drove a 5 cylinder VW Passat, I have never seen a car that was so thirsty...
Yeah if they had put in the Golf R it would have been ultimate game changer.
@@marccyberwiz Vw wanted to but Audi said no unfortunately
Audi is an Audi woefully understeering as well as boring. And then there's that big nasty plastic grill on the front.🤮
Boring understeer, poor handling. All Audi.
audi really hit the nail on the head with the rs3s looks. hands down the best looking hot hatch on sale and for that reason I'd choose it.
I know it’s really all up to taste, but I personally really don’t like the absolutely massive black front “grill”, it’s too much for my taste.
I like the overall design but the front isn’t my favorite. While the M2 isn’t my favorite either, I like the leaner more balanced look of the front.
Thanks for sharing i dont remember who asked
New rs3 looks like ass old one was way better same with m2
I don't suppose you're talking about that big, pasty, plastic grill from Audi? It looks hideous.
That's not a hatchback so it's not a hot hatch. Normal trunk.
That new RS3 is bad ass! Previous gen M2 comp has always been one of my dream cars but man I'd have a hard time choosing between that and the new RS3. As a note I don't do track days so just fun daily.
I think the car on your profile picture is the coolest looking one
Fr
Lovely review, I’m a TTRS owner in Canada and I’m planning on buying a RS3 for my vacation home in the Caribbean that has some nice twisty roads.
Love the RS3! Crazy that an M2 is pushing almost 4000lbs. Tighten it up BMW.
Why, so it can be worse like an RS3? It weighs what it does because it's basically an M4 with different sheet metal. They could make it lighter by basing it off the FWD platform like Audi does but then it would be just another tarted up FWD econobox.
@@chrisbradley9607 BMW already makes a RWD car on the CLAR platform that's lighter and faster around a track than the M2. The Supra. Same day, tire, and professional driver M2 is a little over a second slower: th-cam.com/video/K-7MEiMSxTk/w-d-xo.html
RWD is not an excuse, or reason, for a small car to be this heavy.
@@jddonegan check the leaderboard, new m2 is faster than Supra by a second here, and you still have back seats and a reasonable trunk size and good visibility in all directions
@@KandiMan I’m guessing if Toyota put Cup 2s on the Supra like BWM did for the M2 in this video that it would make up that second;)
@@chrisbradley9607 not sure the RS3 is an econobox, but sure. However, they didn’t make it lighter. All of the latest BMWs are heavy..and pretty ugly in my view. It’s ok. It’s still a cool car. I’d take the previous version though. To me, the previous M2 is the most pure M car to come out in a while minus that M5 CS.
I really much prefer the Audi RS3 because it look so sick
Not to mention the glorious sounding 5 cylinder.
@@AnontheGOAT oh yeah is also has 5 cylinder Completely forgot that
But they understeer like mad.
disgusting plastic grill i RS3 is awful.
@@czesaw597 name one modern car that doesn’t have a plastic grill?
The engine from the Audi and the Quattro AWD is unmatched and the quality of the interior(the virtual cockpit) wins it for me
@@layne4376 it is too bad u cant afford one anyways
it's not the real quattro 😁 normally the 5 cyl wins against everything but there's no clear winner against the soon to be legendary s58
Eh, I've owned a TTRS with that 5 cylinder and although it sounds great and pulls like a freight train it revs out quite slowly (huge, heavy balance shafts will do that) which sucked a lot of the fun out of WOT pulls for me. I just prefer motors that rip to the redline even if they don't sound as good as the 5 cylinder. I do like Audi interiors though!
@@layne4376 look at the cars the RS3 is on the leaderboards with 😂 all 2 door sports cars with 450+hp and the RS3 has the same time. Unmatched performance and quality
Audi sucks, Bmw sucks basicly every german car sucks. Coming from a german driving a mercedes haha
Would be interesting to throw in the facelift A45S for comparison and to hear your thoughts on how it places against these two.
Thomas - I really think you didn’t do enough of a deep dive into your own M2! Would LOVE to see a full vid on that, including perspective on it as a daily driver and how easily it really does kick out the back!! 👍
Honestly the Audi RS3 has always seemed like the perfect car. Small enough for the city, decent boot size, physical HVAC buttons, integrated non-tablet screen, usable rear seats, will keep its value because of being a 5cyl. Should just buy one ugh
Still a glorified Volkswagen
Wel first gen where it doesnt have a tablet as a screen thank you audiii
It's a great all round enthusiast car, hope to get one next year
@@hassanger8128hat’s not a bad thing. VW group makes the best cars. Lets not forget who owns Lamborghini and Porsche.
I completely agree the main thing I love is the intergrated screen and the incredible Audi 5
Both cars are so special and great at what they do and representing their motorsport divisions amazingly well. For my money id also take the Audi, 4 doors, 5 cylinder engine, and awd.
But you do know that when choosing between these cars that most of your money is going to performance so why choose the slower one? Makes no sense
@@avishkarsingh744 Some of us only buy manual cars!
@@avishkarsingh744 because the M2 is hideous
@@avishkarsingh744 One is for the track, the other is for the street. They aren't really close to each other in the real world.
@@avishkarsingh744lol you’re not going to notice that negligible difference in everyday city driving. Don’t be silly. Plus, RS3 looks and sounds SO much better.
James's entrance could not have been any more perfect xD
I just read that in the voice of Ross Geller...
Test drove both cars for few hours , picking up G87 M2 next month. I'm absolutely amazed how this new M2 drives and Im saying this after 3 years with old M2.
Could not agree more, drove an F87 M2 Comp and G87 M2 back to back and bought the G87 for 20k more
M2 feels much better than the rs3?
ugly
I’m waiting to test drive aswell how was the feeling of the new Rs3 i own a Type R Fk8 and I love the feel of it I can’t go back to driving just any car I’m curious if the M2 is similar and better what do you think?
Yes how did it stack against the rs3
looking at this 1 year later @12:21 in the video you see the M2 rear end kick out when breaking at high speeds. there was a man from new york who died recently from this reason with this car. just wanted to put that out there!!!!!! Love the RS3 too!!!!
as an Audi 8Y RS3 owner it makes me glad i bought it and i bet if it was on the same cup 2s the times probably would have been alot closer.
Trofeo R is on par with Cup 2, that's the best time you're going to see for it
@@KandiMan If you do a little research, you will know the cup 2s are better tire overall.
@@godlyname8544 not correct, Trofeo R is quite a bit more aggressive than Cup 2, RS3 will be slower on Cup 2
@@godlyname8544 dont argue with him just let him cook
Those tyres are in the same performance bracket, so no. It wouldn't make a noticeable difference.
The Trofeos are actually slightly better in the dry.
RS3 is better when it comes to one car garage, it has 4 doors more practical, you can drive it in rain and snow.
Can't believe RWD M2 is way heavier than AWD RS3 😂😂
RS3 as daily driver and R8 for the weekend ;)
The BMW and most other rwd cars are better in the rain and snow than the Audi.
@@pistonburner6448 sure if you want to run it into a poll or a ditch then yes
@@francisgomes9976 What do you mean? It's hard to understand you as I don't speak "illiterate chav". What's a "poll"? Why would anyone "run it" into a poll? Do you usually "run" in cars or next to cars or what on earth are you doing??
@@pistonburner6448 😂😂😂 no way is a rear wheel drive car better in snow and rain if both cars are on same tyres
That makes absolutely no sense.
the RS3 has been the ultimate pocket rocket since its introduction. period.
The A45S is still sharper to drive, has a better interior and is about as capable.
Shame it sounds like a vacuum cleaner.
@@xIcarus227 nah the A45S is classless. Looks like a Nike trainer with scumbag vibes throughout.
@@aidencoder I don't like the A45S either, but the CLA looks sexy.
And the interior is leagues ahead of the RS3, can even get ventilated seats.
Don’t forget the M140, civic Type R …
@@xIcarus227 The A45S is nowhere near as good of a daily driver compared to the RS3, which has a much softer suspension when both are on comfort mode.
I'm impressed with these numbers.
Personally I'd get the RS3 for that inline 5 engine. That sound is euphoric. 🎉❤🎉
I6 > I5
@BigfootUnibrowMan the s58 is better for tuning and makes more power but you have to appreciate a unqiue 5 cylinder car
@user-mv5it1pz7q Lol, feelings hurt?
@user-mv5it1pz7q cri mor
One of your best videos. This format is why you’ve gained so many subscribers. Two different cars. Two different personalities that complement each other well. 👍🏻. More of this and less of the crossover EV single car videos.
Audi 5cyl has always been an absolutely glorious noise 💪, Just listen to it 😘
Like a lawnmower
@@kwachujachu4415 brother, stop lying just because you have a hate boner for Audis 😂
I reckon slower gear changes in the new ZF8's is for emissions. I think they put rev hang in manuals now because closing the valves more slowly is better for NOX testing
can easily be fixed with an XHP flash
@@aimxdy8680 not if you like your warranty
The ZF8 is also super fast for a torque converter, not dual clutch level but close enough
That RS3 is like a honey badge in the animal kingdom can go against anyone & keep up
I honestly said "and I'm James" when I expected him to originally say it, and it made me very happy once he did say it later in the video
The M2 looks absolutely great. If it had a Toyota badge, people would hype it into oblivion…
It’s just the typical hate against BMW…
iL y a aussi la haine typique contre Audi !
RS3 is a dream car, love it in the green. Props to the M2 as well but for daily driving RS3 seems best
I'm sure I won't be the last to comment that I'm interested to see how the new Golf R DSG on nice tires fits the list now.
I'd take the RS3... And even though I like that green, ultimately.. I'd have my RS3 in that GORGEOUS 'Audi Ara Chrystal Blue' colour 👌😊
😎🇬🇧
And I don't because the RS3 is the dullest car in the class. That is, nothing new for Audi.
For many years, I would have taken the piss out of you for this decision. I still would, but I'm struggling to think of a suggestion for something else you should have bought instead, at least on the new car market.
@@kwachujachu4415 OK TROLL😂
@@ApothecaryTerry I might take the A45 instead of my RS3 if that car is available in NA market as I do like the look of the A45 better than the RS3. But given it's not, RS3 is the best that edges out the M340i for me.
@@jkliao6486 Fair enough. I daily a Cayman (981S) since it's another league in terms of looks, plus surprisingly practical and cost effective - I get 45-50mpg (UK) on long runs and have carried 300kg+ of gravel (plus my ex-GF, won't mention her weight 😂). If you need back seats though, while I wouldn't buy any of those cars personally, I can't really criticise anyone who picks an A45 or RS3, or M340i for that matter.
My dad had the previous RS3, he never tracked it or did any crazy driving in it but he loved it so much and he got $20k in equity at the end of the lease which was put into a Mk7.5 Golf R, MQB platform is very good, I know for sure if the new RS3 came to Canada he’d of gotten that, it was just such a great daily
Love how that 5-cylinder sounds like a baby V10!
I could watch Thomas fling cars sideways around corners all day.
This still makes me happy being the owner of the previous gen M2
May not have the legs of the new one but it is special
I’m getting a brand new S3 tomorrow and you won’t believe how excited I am 😅🎉😱
You’re going to love it. The launch control is so much fun 😅
@@stefanomarcellino6701 I sure hope so!
Enjoy your golf ride 😁
Their amazing cars, always loved the MQB platforms
Throttle House has so much become my most favorite car channel, that I basically dont watch the others anymore. Please keep your style guys, you are magicians (the whole team) :)
I’d like to see them discuss some of the top 20 times/cars and where those models are now and where they see them going over the next few years.
Hey Guys ! Before I watch this I just want to say I love your guys’ content and it helped get me thru the Pandemic. I found a new love for cars and my partner goes insane with how much I talk about cars, we drive a ‘22 Model Y Performance. Keep going you guys !! Great stufffff 🔥🔥
L car
This channel just keeps getting better. Keep it up!!
I agree with their conclusions. I’m and M2 fan, but for the new gen, I would pick the RS3. It now has rear end play AND I get to listen to that 5 cylinder sound 🤤 As someone who has passengers regularly, the rear seats are welcome. But would also get a a prev gen M2 (more beautiful than either of these cars). Thank you for making my Friday, Throttle House! Loving the cinematic grading on those hot lap on boards btw 🙌
Andrew likes rear end play
And I don't the M2 is still a much better and more fun car. The RS3 like the Audi is a bit boring.
@@lawetapotrzebnaodzaraz8383 no.
They are absolutely big liars and always anti BMW.
@@lawetapotrzebnaodzaraz8383 yup love how new rs3 owners are like its wild like a bmw now yet when they get out of my bmw they are like my rs3 wel its wild enough for me 🤣🤣🤣
I knew James was gonna pop up in the middle of the video somewhere.. but that entrance 🤣🤣🤣 pure gold
6:20 I love the entrance of James 😂😂😂😂
Hey guys, great stuff as always,, but I'd like to see what kind of lap times that James can achieve on these comparissons
These guys are the GOATS of car reviews
Great video, RS3 all day anyday
Really appreciated this review as I was cross shopping these two cars. I found the RS3 to be more fund on public roads (I'll only rarely track my cars) and a lot more unique with the 5 pot engine. It's also much more practical. Thanks for helping to make my decision a little bit easier! I'm loving my new RS3 so far
“And I’m James!!”
Bwahahaha I’m dying. 🤣🤣
I wish we got the hatch back RS3, would be perfect daily
I've just taken delivery of an RS3 sportback - I can confirm it is an excellent daily. I also have a Porsche 718 GTS and the RS3 is the perfect compliment to it. It is practical, comfortable and entertaining when asked. Shame you guys don't get the hatch, as it also looks amazing. Not a fan of the sedan looks at all.
A moment of appreciation for Thomas's skills
You guys have such an amazing chemistry together and by far the best videos for car channels. You guys are funny and are honest with the reviews. really reminds me of the old TOP GEAR trios. I am sorry that you guys do not get the RS3's in canada but if you ever come to Texas we can take mine to go eat! Cheers to more amazing videos!
What's the best part of throttle house? The comraderrie between James and Thomas. Everything else is just a prop that highlights what friendship is about.
The Audi front end looks like it’s missing with all that black plastic. And people make fun of the M2 front end? Given the choice, the M2 is an amazing car and for most people, the automatic is so much smoother than the dual clutch auto. BMW claims shifts in S3 mode to be 150 milliseconds, and I’d bet the DCT isn’t much faster or could be even better felt faster. In Oregon’s, before I bought my 2024 M2, Audi had a $35,000 markup on the RS3. It was a no brainer which to buy. Keep up the good work….I love your videos. By the way, did you see the difference those optional Audi tires made on the Car and Driver Lightning Lap? When they changed to those tires from the stock tires, they gained like 4 seconds a lap at VIR. If it wasn’t for those tires, the Audi would be down closer to the Golf R. With the M2, the Audi RS3, or the Golf R….you can’t go wrong. All are wonderful cars. Congrats James on your Golf R purchase.
now this is the video I'd like to see
I wonder how fast would the M2 CS be if it was a DCT.
The zf tuned is faster than the dct, much more control from a dig too
@@iohanncenturion9343 ZF8 is definitely not faster than a dual clutch transmission. ZF8 shifts are in the 150-300ms range, whereas DCTs are in the 10-50ms range. But most people will not notice the difference, so the ZF8 feels fast enough.
@@hevatibm only tuned
@@hevatibm Also, the shift velocity or that kick-in-the-butt feeling from DCT is addictive. The ZF is just too "refined" like CVT.
@@hevatibm DCTs don't shift in the 10-50ms range lol, quit believing that garbage VW was spouting a while back. The PDK which is considered one of the fastest DCTs shifts in a hair over 100ms, while the ZF8 shifts in 150ms.
The difference is that the ZF8 will hit those shifts more consistently, whereas you have to nail the gear preselection in the PDK.
Regardless, they're both fast enough to the point where it's irrelevant.
That Rs3 is amazing
What a fantastically triumphant entry into the video for James!
You guys are the absolute best! I literally look forward to waking up with my coffee and watching your videos. As far as Euro cars go im a BMW guy. But if the RS3 were offered with a manual it would be my favorite modern car available to me at any pricepoint
That 5 star drift was seriously impressive
Very nice review, as allways. My unpopular opinion: I think the M2 looks better due to its proportions (loong hood, two doors, short rear, wide stance) while the RS3 with it's wide track in the front looks like a bodybuilder that skipped leg-day.
But I agree with Thomas, that i'd go with a previous gen M (F82 M4 Comp for me) over one of these two.
Same opinion here... I like my current G series M4 but my F series M4 was a lot tougher, maybe the last proper M car.... 😢
You guys are amazing. BBC top gear need to watch your show. Bravo buddies!!!
The combination of wow and lol I experience during these videos is unparalleled. Way to go, fellas.
RS3 > M2 just because of the engine alone. Looks much better too
ok kiddo
RS3 is ugly it has a big plastic grill..
@@czesaw597 The RS3 does have a big plastic grille, you are correct. I understand your situation though - the M2 is so ugly that you can't open your eyes long enough to look at it, but I am sorry to have to inform you: it's 1000000x uglier than the RS3 😂
Disclaimer: I'm definitely not an Audi fanboy (I have spent so long mocking Audi drivers, they wouldn't let me buy one!). It's just, I like BMW enough that I care if they make good cars, which makes it more annoying that their new cars all look like a chimp had diarrhoea on a Picasso painting and someone accidentally set fire to the result.
RS3 is a glorified VW Golf. And the S58 is the better engine.
Love the sound of that 5 cyl and I heard it’s a pretty stout engine, I had an 04 S4 back in the day and it was maintenance nightmare but I’ve heard good things about the 5 cyl and it’s tunability.
How do you keep making your videos better and better?!?
this new design of the M2002 is so amazing - NICE
2:09 If the F87 M2 was "ultra ultra playful" I wonder what the E82 1M was?
I think only James could comes up with the adverbs and adjectives for that one.
I'd love to see Demuro rate the cars these chaps are going to race and track, then Thomas and James take Doug along for the ride.
When I was reading this I said (on a riideee )😂😂😂
No! Demuro is a hack - can't stand him.
I agree these guys would make an excellent collab with doug they would be unbeatable together on TH-cam
You guys are taken the car review to whole different level.
Marvellous. It looks like those cars are tools and you are the artist.
Great review, guys!
I think the RS3 is one of the great sleeper cars. No one outside of the enthusiast community would expect it to be so fast.
As for the M2 ZF vs. manual, I’d take the manual every time, just for the fun of rowing my own gears. I don’t do track days and I don’t care if it’s just a bit slower; manuals are just more fun to daily drive for me.
Not sure any Audi is a good sleeper now honestly, they have a reputation. My Dad bought an A6 TDI and 3 people assumed it was faster than my hybrid Lexus...even though the Lexus was faster on EV mode than the Audi (or with the 300hp V6 on, the Lexus did 0-100-0-100-0-100-0-100-0mph in the time the Audi does 0-100mph.).
Anyway, I'm only disagreeing on whether any Audi is really a sleeper now, plus that Lexus was a mad sleeper so a bad comparison. I do like this RS3 so I assume I agree with you overall about both of these cars, I do like this new RS3. I have a concern about the M2 manual though- Thomas, and others, suggested the manual transmission is a bit crap on this M2. In theory, I like manuals in the right cars (small and not super fast cars) but in this case it seems that BMW didn't get it right. Also, the car is too heavy, so the manual can't be used properly anyway. Seems like an auto is better in the new M2, to me, but honestly I'd pick an older, slower car with a manual...or ideally a Porsche 981 2.7, Honda EP3 or or Peugeot 306 GTI-6 to really enjoy a manual!
@@ApothecaryTerry Great points. I think the RS3 is a sleeper to non-enthusiasts. To non-car people it just looks like another A3.
As for the BMW, you’re right - the regular sticks in the manuals was pretty rubbery feeling, but the M manuals feel a little better. Not the best, but I’d still want the manual over the ZF, just because I prefer a manual. The ZF is great, and probably a better choice for most people. But given a choice in a car that offers both, I’d always take the manual.
@ApothecaryTerry non car people have two opinons about BMW 1. That person is rich/lucky or 2. That person is rich/ahole. With Audi non-car people are barely aware it exists, especially in the US
@@catinthehat5140 That doesn't apply in Europe - here non-car people feel exactly the same about Audi as BMW. Don't think I've seen an Audi indicate since I last took one on a test drive...
Throttle house, doing it yet again. Love the quality
James you' re so cool🤣🤩
The RS3 is the one. But the Lotus Emira is the one to buy & you did it😊😉
Can you guys considering doing a behind the scenes video of how you plan and shoot your reviews/come up with the story lines? Can’t believe how much this channel has grown up but it’s been so fun to see.
I want to love the BMW. But as a daily, the Audi is amazing.
Ill take the RS3 alllllll day
"..to add the element of speed, which....makes the car look blurry. You´re welcome!"
I freakin love you guys! 😆👌
James hit the intro right on the button. Start the serious real comparison of two vehicles with a smile. Lol. A+ intro James!
I can’t get over the fact that the M2 is heavier than an Aston Martin DBS.
I've taken a Porsche Cayman, loaded it with 350kg+ of gravel and my ex girlfriend who, for the sake of argument, weighed 350kg 🤣 Total weight was still less than that M2. I might be overstating the weight of the gravel, definitely not the ex.
In terms of performance and weight, that M2 is perfect..for an M5. It's just, if it was 500kg lighter then it would be, ya know, good. They'll claim it's safety, but a Pug 308 GTi which was sold until last year (might still be sold, not sure, nobody is buying them if so) weighed 1205kg, so a solid 500kg less than the M2, while being quicker from 30-70 and round a track vs a Golf R- not that it matters, because also 20x more fun, yet still got 5 star NCAP. I'm not saying that 308 is even that good, it ain't (i20N is the way to go, or a 981...or a Lotus), but demonstrates that 1700kg is unnecessary
I wonder if it wasn’t upshifting because you were in drift mode?
RS3 on looks alone. I do not care if the BMW is a better drive, even if by a long way. I have to look at the car.
RS3 is ugly it has a big plastic grill
@@czesaw597 RS3 is not overly pretty, no. But the BMW, actually any BMW nowadays, is just so utterly hideous it immediately disqualifies it.
I have a 25 M2 manual and love the way it drives
I think it looks great. When you get Brooklyn gray and a carbon tail kick. Tint and rain guards with better wheels it really looks good.
Usually i would choose the M2 as the car i would want. However the new RS3 is just so good and the new engine, AWD system and look just does exactly what i want. Both are heavy so its just the three things i named that matter most to me.
It's actually had this engine since 2014
@@catinthehat5140 the engine is updated with new parts and the way it works with the AWD system makes it feel like a 100% different car.
Even if it lost, I'd still take the Audi RS3. Just a fun car, and a fun 5 cylinder engine.
Rs3 has my heart
boring like all audis
12:07 can the dip on that throttle house drag strip be fixed? i’d hate to see that ever happen again
That first intro by James in the RS3 is CLASSIC! So funny.
M2 CS F87.. still the better choice!
7/10s of a second. That is not a big gap, and that M2 is incredibly fast! For the Audi, I love the 5 cylinder in that thing and I am still rooting for Audi to put that in the new RS4 with some hybrid wizardry (even though it won't happen) because the engine is just incredible! But I do agree with Thomas. The RS3 is nice, but an f87 M2 is where it is at.
Audi all day every days👍🏻👍🏻
Wish you guys included a CLA45s as well. I feel like those are a ton of fun as well.
Not the biggest Audi guy, but this new rs3 is so smooth. Body, interior, best in class